A Fellow's Journal

[Lord Dark]

*In the Wild Surge in after listening to Jharl's story few hours earlier*
 
 I'll make this short... *looks over his shoulder several times* I as heading into the Merchant Hall when Raz, Miss Ophelia and Miss.. Kali I think, not sure... was outside. I waved to them all, greeted them politely and everything. I did my thing by going inside and purchasing the regular two bottles of tanning acid, oil, no salt this time since I find my own source now, and walking out to the crafting hall. I waved to them all once more, but I knew, somehow I knew, with Raz standing there with two beautiful women, that I should've went out the back way instead of walking out the front! Raz told me to wait a second and I thought maybe he's not thinking what other people think when there's two halfling around of the opposite sex... apparently, I was wrong! By then, I was growing very, very nervous. Miss Ophelia and Miss Kali standing there, whispering to each other and keeps glancing back at Raz and I didn't help a bit! I was light headed and anxious to get away, and I do not remember all the dialouge, but I started to whisper back as quietly but as harshly as I could saying that I do not know what to do with a woman... I know what, but not sure how... Miss Kali said that they were heading to the Arms and Raz said they were going to talk over drinks, card reading or something and after... he said he was not sure he, him and his humble self, could handle those two fine ladies and that he needed all the help he could get. I started to whisper back but he had to tempt me with PIE! I mean come on! He knows I can't resist pie! He probably had it on him for that reason! *takes a bite out of the pie that Raz gave him*
 
 The two women kept whispering, giggling, glancing, winking, doing all the hair movements... They look like they could make a guy happy but I wasn't happy then. Raz had to run inside for some coin and I wasn't about to stay out there alone with those two women! Sure they are more than pleasant to look at... but I didn't want to have to stay and listen to them whispering and glancing back only at me, I didn't have Raz there at the moment to hide half of myself behind him so I headed in, making a stupid excuse that seemed half way possible. Raz was talking to the banker and he looked back to me and told me to leave everything behind because he does not trust redheaded one and he didn't know why but he planned to find out... they're both red headed! I punched him in the arm as hard as I could, I was furious! I wanted to rip his arm off and slap him with it, I was that ticked! *makes a hole in his paper while dotting the "i"* He knows I am no good with women. Sure, I can crack off a few jokes, like when a lady says I'm so cute and they want to stick me in a pocket and take me home and I'd ask, "Is it a breast pocket?" I can do that easily but I can't really take a woman out, and one that's experianced! *pauses thinking back*
 
 He headed outside and I stood there thinking on what to do. I could sneak out, no problem but Miss Ophelia is a priest... she may have true seeing up... Not sure about Miss Kali. But I decided to head out, and they were talking and I asked what he has been saying while I wasn't there... Miss Ophelia said that he said that I had a tattoo somewhere and she wanted to find out... That scared me... she was willing and I was not. She is gorgeous, don't get me wrong, but she is intimidating. They headed off, Raz had miss Kali's hand in the crook of his elbow in that formal way and I could tell that Miss Ophelia was getting impatient... so I did the same... the best that I could really. Raz made light conversation With Miss Kali about where she was from and I stayed silent... Miss Ophelia started on where she was born and I knew I made a mistake by not saying anything to her. She talked about Mist some and about her father didn't agree with her about worshipping anyone... And I asked why we should worship anyone just to make light conversation too. She said worship in what you believe in or something, I wasn't paying attention because I was trying to make sure I said the right things and walked right and do everything right... And I asked, what if you don't believe in anything. She said that I'd be a fool and a blind man could see that the gods are everywhere. I half joked that I am a fool... since I accepted this stupid pie I am eating and going out with her!
 
 *few minutes later after finishing more of the pie*
 I stopped Raz before we boarded... amd told him to tell Miss Ophelia that I had to go check on the wife and kids (how could I have a wife and kids if I can't even go through a date with a woman that was more than willing?) and Raz also knew I didn't have a wife and kids... He asked why I didn't want to go and to tell the truth. I was telling the truth the whole dang time! I told him I am a coward, one that has no idea what he is doing. He replied calmly that Miss Ophelia would be good for me and she wouldn't hurt or emberrass me.. she's failed already on the not embarrassing part *chuckles wryly* He said a hicky wouldn't be considered hurting me... I had enough at that point. He headed onto the ship and I slip off unseen. Hope Miss Ophelia didn't take it the wrong way, she did look fine tonight, but once agian, I am no lady's man.
 
 All I have right now that I need to write about.
 

-Fellow

 
 *stuff his book back into his bag and leaves, carrying the pie with him as if it was his only lifeline*

[Lord Dark]

*In the Samp's Mugs' kitchen waiting for a loaf of bread to cook, he brings out his book and begins to write, remembering the last couplde of days*
 
 I feel sort of foolish... about running from Miss Ophelia that one day, I realize I should have just enjoyed the evening and then decline her offer about... desert... in a more frontal way instead of turn tail and running...
 
 *looks down as one of the inn's cook comes in so she cannot see his burning, embarrassed face*
 
 I have made good friends with Keppli and Rockhead (Rocky for short). We have been doing alot together. Their personalities are... wild, not too wild, and light for Rocky and soft and mild for Keppli. I was changing my new set of armor and I didn't know what dyes to choose, and Keppli arrived. She wears bright colors as well but more of greens and browns like Caerwyn and other rangers... so I decided purple since, not to many wear it and I want to see people's reactions. Ben didn't like it to much, he said it gave "us rogues" a bad name... I'm not a rogue, once agian, I am a "scamp" as Tugs puts it. I kept the purple for a couple days and went back to the darker blue and black. Rocky gave Keppli an apple that I gave him and she wanted to know where to find the apples. I offered to take her to the trees that are located past Mariner's Hold. We walked to Stone, it is a beautiful place and being there with her is better than alone. We walked the cliff face and I could sense and tell she does not like hieghts by the way she was hugging the inside of the trail. She said she wasn't afraid, but I know she was... not alot, but maybe but some. We did make it across alive and well and we went to the Sun Castle. She hadn't seen that flag before and it was good to be of some help besides just showing the way to the apples.
 
 We left the castle and cross the cliff once more, she did go on a slightly faster pace. I advoided the cougers for her even though I need the meat and skins. We went through Wolfswood ranger's camps and around that hill with the giants camping on top. We came to the bridge that had the gap and branched off slightly to show her the pears. We left the pear trees after the giants came close enough to see us but I am glad they have poor eye sight. We jumped the bridge and went after the almonds Goldy wants so bad. We were doing good at staying low and hidden, I had gotten the last almond and I heard a twig snap.. not the logs that the giants were stepping on but a tiny twigs that splintered under a small foot... I turned back and giant started his way straight forward to Keppli. I ran up behind once she brought it away from the rest of the giants and I reach up as high as I could and stabbed the back of it's leg and twisted as hard as I could. Better he to get away but I meant to disable it but sticking one of it's arteries but it turned on me. The only though I could think of was to stay and try to kill it but it's axe.. sort of had it's own mind on killing me. Keppli did get away and I got hit on the shoulder and the both my legs after jumping away a few times. I jumped the gap and was suprised that it didn't jump too. It spotted me once agian and started to throw whatever giants throw... I think axes. The giants didn't throw one right but it did it me in the back with the flat side of the blade... I just about made every bit of air in my body force it's away out of my mouth and nose, but I did get away but with a massive black spot on my back. I had to wait for the giant to leave and go pick it's nose so I could get to the glass lake to check on Keppli. It left a half hour later I guess, wasn't to long but it seemed like hours since I could not cross. I slept during that time and felt a little better, my back ached something aweful and my legs wasn't feeling any better. I did make the jump, wasn't too hard, and I found Keppli only because she wanted me too. She was hiding somewhere, don't know where, I couldn't see her and she appeared behind me, and for a second I was afriad a giant was sneaking up on it's toes and I just about lept back and swung blindly... glad I didn't. She didn't look too good since she got hit as well, I bet I didn't look much better myself. *touches a bruised arm and winces* We rested and bandaged each other up and headed torwards the grove. The river's atmosphere was perfect after that little incident. It was calm, quiet, water was running and birds were heard. The trees were dotted red, it was a good day for picking. I climb the first couple of trees with little difficulty, sometimes missing a branch or two and slipping but catching hold on a branch a little ways down the tree. I dropped the apples down to Keppli below and we gathered quite a few. She wanted to climb one but warned she was clumsy... aren't we all? She went to jump, but miss stepped and didn't jump quite high enough and fell straight on her stomach... Once she stood, (I guess I should have helped her up, this is where I miss up alot with any woman) I cupped my hands to give her a lift but she still didn't quite make it. She did say she was rather clumsy and she was emberrassed I'm sure... I got a running start and made to jump for the same branch but I missed stepped as well and fell straight onto my stomach. I wasn't trying to make her feel better for falling as well... but her face wasn't as red after I got up. We climbed or shot the apples down on the last few trees and she had to leave to go find Lythar (her wolf friend, I wouldn't mind having a wolf around).
 
 *turns the page to another sheet and begins to write about the next day*
 
 I was... what was I doing? I was doing something and both Keppli and Rocky showed up. I think I was baking like I am now and they showed up in the kitchen or something... but anyway. They looked rather bored I guess, I asked what they wanted to do. They didn't really have any ideas and Rocky headed me an apple to eat since I was hungry... He said he wanted to go to the apple trees since I showed Keppli and that's what we did. It was a good day to get apples once agian. We headed torwards the ships and bought the tickets. I bought enough for all of us and handed Rocky his and Keppli hers... she gave me gold saying she didn't like charity, I was trying to be nice but I think she intrepreted as me saying she didn't have enough gold to buy her own tickets... they were eighty coins, not sixty, but oh well *grins* I showed Rocky the Sun Castle and Keppli asked for rope and she tied it around her waist... I'm not sure how it would help her if no one held the end so I took the loose end. Her face was pale as we walked the cliff face once more. Rocky read the flag and wrote it down. I took them to the other side of the water falls and found this tower that I never saw before. We climb the stairs inside and we were a couple hundred feet over the ground when we left the top door. I was even frightened when I looked over the edge and Keppli glanced over and her face went completely pale... if there's something beyond pale, then that is the shade. We left soon after and went through the woods, around the hill with the giants, got the pears and jumped the bridge. I said I would get the almonds alone since I wouldn't have to worry about a repeat of last time. I wish I didn't say that with way Keppli looked all of a sudden. I snuck up behind thetrees and scaled them quickly and snatch the almonds and I jumped off one and Keppli and Rocky were right behind me! I didn't really want to yell at them or get onto them so I just let them come along, praying to whoever will hear me that the giants wouldn't spot one of them. I was about to pass out from worry when we left the almond trees. Keppli did too with the she was pale and shaking and Rocky looked fine with a big grin on his face. We ran around the lake with Keppli staying behind to handle a stag that decided to take a shot at her with his antlers. I was up in a tree when Rocky came up and rammed his head into the trunk. I started laughing as the tree swayed a little and I yelled that he was shaking the whole tree. He replied, "That's the whole idea right?". He made two apples drop. I guess that's how he got his name Rockhead. *laughs, scaring a maid that arrived to pick up someone's soup* I climbed the next tree and I slipped. Keppli ran up underneath me and tried to catch me. I ended up squishing her while she caught me and I got up saying she made a nice cushion (I said it jokingly...). I'm glad I didn't weigh anymore than thirty to thirty five pounds... not sure now since I eat so much. We got all the apples that I thought was any good, the rest had holes, bruises or had fallen aready and trampled by deer and bears. We ran all the way back to the Hold and sailed to Hempstead. I was beat and they were too. They went off to do thier own thing and I fell asleep right there on the dock...
 
 *after making a pause to check the bread, he sits back down on the box to finish up*
 
 I was fixing my armor agian back to the blue form purple, and Keppli came up saying he had something for me. I looked up form the hundreds of dye bottles they keep there to her and she held out a bright purple tunic and pants. She told me to put them one since Miss Essa invited both her and Rocky to be the entertainment at her party. I pulled the tunic over my head and I looked... I don't know, bad I guess. She explained that Rocky got all of us one and she pulls off her armor to reveal hers underneath. I have to admit she did look nice in the purple with her hood down and hair up. She looked guilty all of a sudden saying that she left Rocky in the mountians past Vhel saying she escaped, and not sure if Rocky did from the yetis. We left the hall after I finished up dyeing my cloak and went to look for Rocky. He came from around an oxe and he looked banged up. He replyed he just came from the bindstone and that all he could remember is killing four and having the last three kicking in his face. I don't see how he could have killed four since I can only kill one but he said he tripped them up and shot them with his cross bow... I was impressed. He asked Keppli if she gave me my costume and he pulled off his tunic to show his own. I pulled of my coat and we were standing there all in purple. We thought of several names and Rocky's the only one that came up with one that was half-way possible. "Two-halves and a Pint*. Niloc came up from behind and said, "How about the Three Stooges?"... I don't know what a stooges is. We agreed that the Two halves and a Pint will do and Keppli said she will be doing flips or "tumbling", Rocky will be playing instruments and I will be juggling. Rocky had to leave for a little bit so we went to a patch of grass to try flips. I tried what Keppli called a "backflip". I started off bad and landed on my stomach, thankfully not my neck. she did a cartwheel or two and Niloc did a a little bit more of a backflip than I did but landing on his hands and knees. Glad he landed on anything but his neck too. I said we could use those couch cushions and Niloc said we could try to do a backflip off a tree by getting a running start and flipping backwards. So I lined up several chushions before a tree and run up and did almost a perfect backflip (from what a nearby lady and her child with her eyes wide said... she recommended to not do agian with children around.). Keppli and Niloc left and I put the cushions back to the couch. I hate seeing people leave even if it's for a day or two.
 
 That's all I have for the moment, alot has happened.
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*sits the book onto a table, once agian in the Scamp's Mug and stares at it for a few minutes. He opens it a begins to think on what to wrip. He finally pulls out his pen that he dipped into ink and lets his thoughts flow over the page*
 
 Alot has happened in these last couple weeks since my last writing. I missed Mrs. Jil's and Marcus' wedding... I must have gotten sidetracked. Miss Daniella said there was alot of pie and food and there were fireworks at the end. I feel bad for not congradulating them and will do so next time I see them.
 
 I meet up with Miss Daniella, Raz and another woman in the arena in Vhel one day. She had on a tunic that showed more of her breasts than she intended and she bowed to me in greeting. Well, I told her that her bowing opened up to a great view.. I don't know, I was just in a happy mood and decided to compliment her, I guess that was just too.. adrupt and straight to the point? Raz called my name and I told him I have been watching him compliment the ladies. He just grinned and asked where that compliment was when I was with Miss Ophelia, Miss Kali and himself that one day before I ran... I don't know, I guess I have to do these things on my own?
 
 But Miss Ami (her whole name is Amireana), she didn't seem to welcome the compliment and she rushed out flustered and stiff. I felt bad for making her feel embaressed... I should be more indirect when commenting on a woman. We followed her out, and I apologized and she asked what were are going to do before she burst with embaressment and Raz said something that made miss Daniella want to fight him in the arena. We all ran inside, and her and Raz prepared thier spells (there was magic in this duel). I sat on the arena's fence to watch and Miss Ami stood beside me. Raz took the first hit but he came back to end up beating Miss Daniella... wasn't really fair since he hasted himself and slowed her... and his prize was a lock of Miss Daniella's hair which he put into his spells book. I challenged him. I knew what I was to do.Raz asked Miss ami what his prize would be if he beat me. She said a kiss and then she turned to me saying sternly that I had better win.
 
 We stepped into the arena, I drew my smaller sword and dagger, keeping the dust of Branderback hidden in my palm. We agreed to no magic but dusts do not count since it's not really magic... it it? We moved into the middle to bralw it out, I hit him, he swung at me, he missed and I through my dust into the air. It immediatly blacked the area around us... just what I wanted. I swung widely, but my eyes adjusted quickly. I slid tothe edge of the blackness and it went away soon enough. I wipped out my bow and Raz's back was turned to me. I shot him in the back, and it hurt him pretty badly... I didn't like hurting my friends but he had it comming for beating on miss Daniella. There we beat each other, I hit him, nipping hm here and there since he was watching my blades. I was watching his and he nipped me once or twice but he was in a worse condition. I slipped my dagger underneath  his arm so lay open his side and he fell from there. I am glad I did accidently grab my dagger with the snake fang or that would've been a nasty wound.
 
 We slept to heal ourselves and we accepted healing from the healers in the arena. I went to Miss Am and Miss Daniella to let Raz finish resting. they said I was skilled and I accepted the compliments with a grin and thanks. Miss Ami saw Raz by himself and went over to kiss him anyway! I'm the one that won, but no kisses for me even when I did as Miss Ami told me to. We decided to go to the Dragon Isles. Miss Ami went to the ship to wait as miss Daniella was collecting her though. She wasn't paying attention to anything at all. I crossed my arms, not speaking to either Raz or her. I glared up at Raz saying that he still got the kiss even when I won... He asked if I was mad, I wasn't really but it made me think and I straightened myself up. He said that he'd be all over her if she wasn't taken... and I said of course. He replied that he feels differently for her. I said that it was just a phase and that he'll move onto other women like he has been. He didn't seem to accept that.
 
 I'll skip a bunch and make way to the Isles. Aeronn later arrived and joined us by then. I was in the forest waiting for the others with Miss Ami and she asked if he's not really fair.. I didn't understand her and I said so but the others arrived and she just shook her head and didn't say anything else. We made our way down into the caves. The gorgon's stoned Raz and I brought out my chisel.. just something I like to joke about. miss ami said sharply that I wouldn't dare.. I mean, everything I do, I don't get the approval of women whether it be showing off or being brave and saving the day. Maybe that's what she meant when she asked if he's not really fair? Later, few minutes later, a shaman dazed Miss ami and he kisses her and the a little ways down, I was dazed and she kissed me this time. She said she would get back at him for kissing her and I guess her revenge was kissing me. I asked if Raz put her up to it, and she said no. I'm glad for once, Raz didn't put a woman up to kiss me. We did well getting to the flag.We were coming out and the minotaur reinforcements came. They were clustered, speakign to oen another and I tried to attract on of thier attentions. Well they all saw me and the swarmed us. I said to fight on the bridge because there were to many. One by one, we fell. Everythign went black and before that I saw miss Daniella finally run. I arrived at the bindsotne in Hempstead and Miss Daniella followed right behind. She didn't look to well... not sure if she lost a part of her soul... I hope not. We I sailed to Vhel, catching up with Aeronn, Raz, and Miss Daniella. Miss Ami must have gone off to sleep... I didn't mean to get them all killed... Raz offered three invisibilites but Aeronn had to say that there was no honor in going around his enemies, unseen. That hurt comming from him. I like him alot, like Aesthir and Lance. I know I don't have much honor, it didn't bother me until he said that. I said I'll get it by myself, I ran off to get my grave.
 
 I arrived to the place where we fell.. the stones I saw, and the stones I hated. They are a source of pain and sorrow on which I do not enjoy. I am trying to sound... poetic, half-way lovely as I write about this since my hatred torwards the minotaurs was so great. I left in a hurry to get back to Vhel, arrived and they were still looking terrible. It was raining and Miss T was there with her realistic ways... those did not make the atmosphere any better. Aeronn noticed my behavior and said he did not mean that I had no honor, I just replied thta I was just tired, but it still stung.
 
 Miss Jaelle arived and she was carrying a baby and her sotmach was flat! I asked if I could see the baby, and the sight made my day. She was a little elven girl, with black hair. I searched in my bags for somethign to give the baby. I did not have a ring or anything fancy that I could afford to give, so I gave her a flower that held healing magic (I keep them on me for emergencies.. or for a lady,I never have the courage to give one) and told her to tell the baby that it's from Tod when she is old enough to ask where the flower's from.... Miss Jaelle waved a hand over it and she said it was protected from aging and elements, even if it was trampled under foot. Elgon arrived and Miss Jaelle kissed him... not sure if he is the father or not, I do not really want to ask and point out that she's slept with every man.. except me of course. I do not want to upset her like I did Miss Ami either. I left soon after I chatted with them and Tugs who came later.
 
 *pauses struggling to pulls a random strand thought from the mass of memories that bundle inside his head*
 
 I've been with Keppli and Rocky alot lately. Just been running around bashing small thing and getting into trouble. The latest bit of trouble was when the clerics from that one village that I helped with Miss Oma and few others were camping out behind the ox merchant. I arrived hearing a group needing help and Sun was looking for them as well. Keppli and Rocky were there but thay had to run off to take care of something. Rit, Rank, Nom, and Miss Oma were there as well.. the only ones besides myself that helped that other village with the three clerics. We walked for a long time. Keppli, Rocky and Miss Daneilla ran to catch up, was glad I had some familiar faces around.
 
 My story is dry from the lack of adding interesting detail and facts and everything people add to gild the lily. I am only telling what I saw and it's not as if someone else will see any of this.
 
 We arrived to the first village, in a valley. Only a few houses with a handful of villagers occupieing the area. There was a huge waterfall to the side where it hurt your neck to look at the top. The grass was well kept and the villagers looked clean and plague free.. I didn't see a problem. But the leader.. Nottalor, was having wierd dreams of tigers and Anvers. We talked and agured among those in our group (Rank, Nom, Rit, some man with a green hood, Rocky, Miss Oma, Keppli, miss Daniella and myself was the group). Miss Oma doesn't like those of Toran while Toran does not like the ones of Prunilla... It's all about the gods right? Well, I listended as best as I could, I had to climb up onto a stables fence to see over everyone's heads. We talked and talked and talked, questions about this and questions about that. I finally asked what does he want us to do about it. He said he wants us to answer his dream. We assumed his dream was about peace with the Anvers (another village across a valley and river). Well.. sounds easy enough. But oh, no. Nothing is ever simple. We went into the valley, we prepared and Nom ran off to scout. Well, okay, I don't care who scouts but as long as we see what's ahead of us and we don't die... But no, he runs up onto a little hil land borught down tigers, mongrelmen and spiders onto us. Keppli was happy since she managed to calm on tigers and the others just kept on hitting it. It was about to finish Keppli off and it's better her than a tiger, so I pitch in an arrows or two as well.... I didn't like the way she looked, I can't stand to see her angered or upset. I offered to scout but Nom and Rit just kept on following me! They were spoiling my soundless movement with armor clanking and with them stepping on their heels, not thier toes so they were stomping around and everything. It brought more spiders, tigers and mongrelmen... oh my! I was irritated, tired, sweaty, hungry and once agian tired! I just got down hunting boar when I heard about the group and I didn't have a chance to sleep. I was ready to leave and let them to thier own ends.. but I couldn't leave miss Daniella, Rocky and Keppli... Miss Oma too, to stay behind and let the other Toranites get them killed. Miss Oma had ran ahead invisible and found the other village, talked to them, wahsed herself and slept while we were clearing the river valley of mushroom men and more tigers (Keppli did get a little pack.. if that's what a group of tigers are called, to leave).
 
 Anyway, Keppli did do good with handling the tigers and we finaly arrived to the village where Miss Oma was sleeping, curled up in a blanket by a fire.. how did I envy her then. It turns out that the Anver distrusted us, told us they would hold a council with the Hanko (villagers from the first village) if we did a test of theirs by clearing out the valley to the north of them... it's always a valley isn't it? We went all the way back to the first village and told them what we found, then we went back tothe second village and Keppli and myself scouted agian in that testing valley. There were tons and tons of harpies. They looked like normal harpies, nothing too much.
 So we went back tothe group, told them what we saw, and we slept, prepared and went into the valley. The harpies changed and htere were less of them. These had bows and shot at us. One pierced my left shoulder, causes my dagger to slip when I'm striking and end up hitting like a normal brawler. Everyone was in the think of battle, Miss Daniella has four or five of them, maybe more, I didn't bother to count, and she was knocked down. I made her drink several potions and bandage her up in record time, but they kept coming. She got away and I stayed to try to stop the harpies. There were more in the back shooting and I couldn't get away. Rit already fell, Keppli was falling in the back and the other were fine beside being filled with arrows but none to the vital areas. I tried to get back to Keppli and away from the harpies, but they were too many. I kept hacking away, I couldn't hit their soft spot since they watched my every move. I was up the small slope and on shot me.. I don't know. *touches the back of his neck, remembering his last second when he felt the arrow thud* Something tore, the tearing was so familiar, yet it was so painful. It hurt, I wanted to scream, yell, kick, bite, punch, tear, stab, cleave, bash, cut... at the thing that was tearing me apart from the inside out. It hurt so much even though I was unconcious.
 
 *spends a few minutes trying to remember what happened in those hours of darkness*
 
 I awoke... if that is what you wish to call it... in Miss Daniella's arms, I thrashed and kicked trying to get out of her hold before I knew it was her holding me. I remembered the pain, sorrow, and fear all of a sudden. It was to much for me to handle. Tears leaked out of my eyes, I couldn't see straight and was dizzy. I am thankfull that I had my hood up and no one could see that I was crying, it would not have helped the situation. I managed to answer Miss Daniellas question about if I am fine. I looked around after I was done and over with my sniffling and found that Keppli, and Rit also were alive and well... I was just so tired. We had to clear all of the valley. I trudged along with all the spirit I held before, we ran into manticores and their spikes, I pulled out my bracers with thier hidden compartment full of manticore spikes and shot way at the manticores with thier own spikes. We was over and done with, the villages made the peace and they choose once agian Prunilla and Toran as their faiths.
 
 At the end, Miss Daniella told me I had alot of honor even though I hide more than I fight. That lifted my spirits up alot and guess that helped me keep going. I am just so tired, it's not even funny.
 
 That's all I have at the moment.
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*in the bunk of some ship heading away from Fort Vhel*
 
 The trial for Aerimor... or the twin of Verideth, was earlier today. I did not like Aerimor much before since... well, I thought he killed Miss Elohanna and Miss Jaelle but when the Advocates questioned Miss Elohanna, it turned out that she killed Miss Jaelle (accidently with a spell while trying to stop Aerimor). And I didn't know much about Aerimor except that he was a murderer. Found out Miss Alatriel was holding his child but her body rejecting it, also he was in the fragil stages of being a shifter which also provoked the attacks on Miss Elohanna and Miss Jaelle. I misjudged him before, I feel guilty for upsetting Miss Alatriel when we first met, I should have done alot of things instead of just automaticly thinking Aerimor a murderer. I do not think he was completely judged right.
 
 The trial was held in Vhel, several was there, I guess just to listen. I was there since I new both Aerimor and Miss Alatriel a least a little bit. Witnesses and the victims were there as well. We headed in, two Advocates, one for the court and one for the accused and the judge was there... of course. Miss Elohanna gave her testimony, I am not sure if she was telling the truth completely, I believe not since Aerimor was shaking her head and was mouthing "no". Arke then gave his, which was also went along with Miss Elohanna's. Caerwyn gave his, and then Miss Jaelle... I think she was lieing through her teeth. The judge borught his necklace which would turn hot if the person holding it lied, it did not turn hot for Miss Jaelle... the judge turned to the alter and asked Roferien forgiveness.. he must have helped her lie! Arke was getting upset and Miss Alatriel was too. Aerimor just stood there and listened but vibrant and energitic. He did not seem scared and wish I had his bravery. People soon started to leave one at a time. I got tired, had to use the bathroom, feet was hurting, I was confused beyond understanding really, but I forced myself to stay because he deserved that much at the least. Little before he was sentenced, Miss Alatriel left since she could not bare to watch. I felt that I should go confort  her or something but I thought Aerimor should have witnesses of his final moments, so I stayed. He was sentenced to be executed, he sort of joked which did not really lighten the moment, but made me dread it all the more. I did manage to crack a smile once or twice but it was wiped away when they lead him outside. They said it would be up to the bindstones if he made it back. I left right afterwards, not being able to look at his body. Miss Jaelle did not even blink or show any emotion from what I saw. I think she is more dangerous than I thought. I hope her baby is fine... I hope Aerimor was brought back by the bindstone and finishing his training as a shifter and he is able to control his mind's thoughts. Hope Miss Alatriel has a second chance on a baby, do not think it was really fair the she lost it.
 
 That is all I have to write about right now.
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*In the Toran's Temple in Fort Llast after everyone had left, after dark*
 
 I have to hurry since Miss Kashi says this is not a lounge. This news days old but Q, or Quantum, the Shining Hand, has been kidnapped by vampires and undead. The story was that Keppli and I were picking the raspberries by Krandor since I have a huge order for someone.I'm not complaining or anything, Keppli says she's not wealthiest so I thought I'd give her a chance for coin. I was showing her where the raspberries were and Keppli told me to watch out, she saw a goblinoid with a bow that was following. We went to go see what it was and what it wanted and it shot at Keppli and cast a spell that made it grow dark around him. I went in with my swords out, hoping I would be able to scare it off. It ran off and two women were in it's place. They were charming besides the sword they were carry. They were twice as long and wide as mine, dripping with acid. We ran, knowing that we could not harm them. They moved through the darkness they casted. Keppli said they had red eyes, but I did not notice, I was earging her on, not looking back to the women. We ran to Fort Llast, hoping they were not follow us to a temple, let alone a temple of Toran. We were at the gates, the darkness was outside, the guard on duty was Jursen, who thought it was Keppli and I casting it. I was instantly angered because the guard, the guard, did not even check if it was us. Q came few moments later, asking us what was wrong.
 
 We met Q couple days before, he said he was going to be instructing a class on the undead. I remember Lance telling Brian that he will send word to Quantum about how he killed Elgon. This must be the same Quantum and I know he is a highly ranked Toranite, not only highly ranked, but the Shining Hand.
 
 When Q showed up and asked what was wrong, I was relieved to know he was here, knowing that he would know how to deal with the women following us. He commanded Jursen to get more guard and to guard the gate. It held a little bit of satisfaction at seeing him scurry for more guards after he did not take any actions to get any when we first showed up. Miss Misty showed up shortly after and said he would help. Keppli and I followed (we halfling are naturaly curious), not fully knowing what danger we were in.
 
 Q was standing in front of a black area, when if was fully daylight. I caught glimpses of white and and black things were moving inside the black. Q stepped in (I did not worry about him since he is the Shining Hand), and begin to fight, trying to rid the area of his sworn enemies. I ran in to help, only to step back out since the deaders out numbered us greatly. I skirted the black, jumping in and out, striking at what I could. Keppli was firing blindly in and it true the skeletons and kobolds fire. I saw Keppli fall when being... she fell from a scimitar, falchion, I do not know which, sinking through her mid section. Miss Misty fell a ways up the trail from arrows and Q was in bad condition. He yelled for me to go back to the temple for help. I was terrified, knowing that if he needed help, then we were not safe at all. I ran into the temple, yelling as loudly as I could, startling Toranites who were praying. I ran up to the healer and up to Miss Kashi who did not respond at first, finally the healer told me to quiet down and to stop acting like a raving lunatic. I told him that Q was being attacked and needed help. He seemed relunctant to follow as if not fully believing me. He walked, did not run, but walked to where Q was being attacked. He raised Miss Misty who was peirced with several arrows and Keppli who had a single hole through her stomach. I still have nightmares about that sight.
 
 There was guards everywhere now, I'm glad they took thier bloody time getting here. Q was no where to be seen, only a bag which several guards were guarding, Keppli was beside me, but in s fragil stage and Miss Misty left. They told me to check the bag and I unlaced the top and looked inside, I pulled out a pair of gloves. They were decrative and I could tell they were no ordinary gloves. The the healer said they were the badge to show the his office and rank. I looked around, there was no Q. There was no bodies of the deaders and no blackness. The guards left, the healer took the gloves to take back to the temple and only Keppli and I were left. We talked about the possiblities on what happened to Q. We came up with that he was killed and his body was taken away, or he was taken hostage by the deaders. The only thing we came up with him being abducted was that he was taken to Krandor, or maybe to a temple of Corath since he is the god of the undead and the only one that would hate the Shining Hand so much. I know his temple were destroyed but I also know he would not stopped only because he was stopped for a little while. He is evil and evil never stops.
 
 *persuades Kashi to let him stay for little bit longer until the sun comes up*
 
 For days later, or earlier today, Miss Daniella, Aeronn, Lance, Chaynce, Marec and myself meet up and they told me that they went ahead and searched Krandor... I was dissapointed that I could not come along, I never went down far enough into those Krypts to see what was at the bottom. They said they found a ritual chamber and that Q was now down there. I'm going to stay around Hempstead of going around and picking berries in case there is another chance to where I can help.
 
 But we meet up and discussed where else Q could be. Chaycne said he was going to go cut up some vampires... and the women chasing Keppli and I must have been vampires... put the two and two together and the yseem liek a match. We went to "Arindor's Demise" and Miss Daniella had to take care of a few things before she went to do anymore searches. In her place, before we went down into the door, a lady named Leisa and a man who's name I cannot recal... We put up our wards, got into our armor (Miss Leisa did not bother to hide herself when she changed... I like her already!).
 
 We killed al lthe umber hulks, they did something to me and I started to get confused on who to hit... I hope it wasn't an evil god taking control of me, but I would stab Marec and Lance... but they had enough armor on so I only dented them and didn't really pierce their bodies. We got to the round room Chaynce was talking about and we were only fighting for a few moments and it was getting bad. The priests were bringing down thier evil god's hammers and the devourer's scared several of us and they summoned bears and threw fireballs and it was a mess! Aeronn fell in front of the door and we retreated as did the vampires when we left. I went in to scout since Chaynce says there's a trapdoor that he can never get into and I went t osee if I could ge tit open. Miss Leisa followed behind, she fights alot like me, she says there are 173 different places on the body that would incapitate anyone. She knows what she is doing! We have to talk some time.
 
 We checked all the doors and some of them were just duds, nothing really to them. We came aon the three doors on the far end. Miss Leisa took care of one and oculdn't get it open, and I checked the other. The trap was just set to where I could not disable it. I was fustrated and worked on the lock. It was just to the point where I could not unlock it. There must be something behind the door. I asked Miss Leisa to see if she could unlock and I heard a click but the trap was still there. Chaynce yelled they were coming back and we ran to where they were. The hammers were comming once more and we were getting beat. Miss Leisa then fell. We ran out the door and and we rested for few minutes. The walls and the floor begun to shook, we left in a hurry and we were out of the danger zone of falling rocks and we were coming off the bridge to the door. Lance and Chaynce just stood there looking back telling us to go. I mean come on, there's bravery but then there's stupidity. They were being stupid by not coming. I jerk Lance down to where he was face to face to me and put all my anger to my voice as I could. He just smield at me... I wanted to sock him! By the gods! I mean come on, I'm terrified and he's smiling! I wanted to bash his face in and leave Miss Ell to clean it up for him... But then I would've felt bad and everyone would've said is was unecessary and it would have been, and I controed myself and didn't swing. It was a good thing, because one of the two women showed up out of no where on the bridge and told us to get out. We asked where Q was and she said she does not have them because they were not that foolish. She told Chaynce that he would be a good pet for her master and I didn't want him to be taken. I said I believe she took him no matter what she said and she raised her hand to point at me. She said that she could "take the little one as well"... I do not remember her exact words because I was wanting to leave to get away from her and was completely terrified. Lance asked her name and she said her name was Death....
 
 We ran and she left. I met a priestess of Aeridin, her name was Miss Victoria and she offered to help us in the future. We thanked her, and I was a little bit calm with her appearance... she did look nice in the white dress. But I ran to the temple, Chaynce and Lance and I don't remember where Marec went... but I guess he had to leave to take care of something. I ran to the temple thinking they were behind me, and Miss Daniella and Aeronn were there. I talked breifly to Miss Daniella and she asked where the others were. I looekd behind and the were coming up the road daying a fog was following them. We went up inside the temple and Aeron nwas left outside to watch the door and Miss Kashi said this is not a lounge... *pauses as Kashi reads over his shoulder and scowls at what he wrote*
 
 We went outside to check on Aeronn and the fog was there. Miss Daniella had said the fog had moved... it dissapeared and it moved behind us. It dissapeared agian and moved behind me in front of the temple next to the bank. The woman appeared in it and told Chaynce to follow her. He asked for what and she said "for tea". Of course he had to say "I dun like tea" and she showed no emotion. I could tell she was irritated. Lane threatened with saying that she should be careful to not step on hallowed ground. She replied that we should be careful to step on nonhallowed ground. That is why I am in the temple tonight.
 
 We are still searching and think Q is in Arindor's Demise, not positive but we have reason to think that.
 
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*sitting at the Lake of Glass after picking the cranberries, climbing for apples and almonds and running away from the kenkus at the angelica leaves*
 
 I am taking a moment's break after doing some collecting, it is going very well. Miss Ami has helped with a box of corn and Keppli has helped with milk and a box of raspberries. In renturn for the corn, she did not ask for anything, but I insisted for her to take a scroll box someone gave. She seemed satisfied enough which is good, I would not have cared to pay the coin. For Keppli, I gave her the two thousand coins and for something extra I made her a bag with her name stitched into it. I was delighted in her suprise and happiness over the bag, maybe I'll have to make more to hand out... poor lions but they reproduce like rabbits anyway. Few hours ago, I made one for Rocky, since I could tell he wanted one too, which I am happy to do.
 
 The search for Q is still on, I met one of his friend's wife, Missus Ireth. She she seemed nice enough, bit on the older side, but still quite young. She said she used to hate Toranites with a passion, but marrying Gerald (her husband), her attitude torwards them has changed. She still seemed to dislike Miss Daniella. After trip back into Krandor's crypts to get Nikki's grandpas ashes agian, Miss Daniella said something that set Missus Ireth off. I feel I will have to play peacemaker once more, which leaves bad migrains at the end of the day, but it keeps the argueing down. After miss Daniella left, Missus Ireth threatened to cut her arms and legs off. I asked her why and she said because she called her weak. I do not think she is weak, I am weak, puny compared to either of them. I naturally stood up for Miss Daniella, we talked back and forth, I told Missus Ireth that she is a big girl and can handle herself but that I would talk to her about it anyway. She did not seem satisfied and said I would take her place in being cut up to pieces if she insulted Missus Ireth once more. She still didn't accept that and I added that the only reason I would take her place is because she would have to deal with me to get to Miss Daniella. Friendship has it's hardships now and then.
 
 I am worried for Q and pray to who ever will listen for his safe return. Maybe I am a religious man and do not know it. I still do not wish to take up one god or goddess, it will make an opening for arguements and conflict.
 
 All I have to write about right now.
 
 
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*On a bench in Hempstead, after most of the population has gone to bedfor the night*
 
 I was on my way from Hlint to do something. I'm not sure what to do now, I really just roam when not with anyone. I ran into Miss Elly and into Miss Daniella (literally ran into her) because it was a downpour and my hood keeps drooping now and then, obscuring my vision. They both asked if I was alright and we made our apologese. I told Miss Daniella, hoping to run into her, but not really into her, to tell her about Missus Ireth. She didn't seem to surprised. We updated each other on Q and what have and mostly on what we haven't found out. They told me they were going to the Citadel in Huagjin to do something and that it was an impressive place. I asked something, I forgot it, and it seemed to make Miss Daniella upset, such as worried or uneasy, not mad, and she said nevermind it. I asked Miss Elly what has happened and she said Miss Daniella had recieved a threat. Not straight to the point threat, but the package had held a woman's hand... A real woman's hand! I think that gets the point across.
 
 We left to Huagjin and walked to the Citadel. The walls were massive! The stone was smooth form the many years of wear from the rain, the stained glass was clean and reflected the sun perfectly. We went inside to the inner walking area and then into the "Keep" if they use castle terms for it. There were several rows of benches with worn fabric as cushion. The walls were grey and huge statues of warriors to each side of the Anhk that sat in the middle behind the binstone. The cieling was high and arched and there was alot of space to move around besides the benches. Miss Daniella prayed at the Anhk and we discussed several things. One was Miss Elly saying Miss Anne threatened her children and home and I said she should be forced away from the church, and that's what Miss Daniella said. She said Miss Anne left the church. I said she was bit mean and she should be watched... Miss Daniella didn't take that and said that I didn't know her like she does. Well, I'm not sure what she has to see to know when someone is dangerous.
 
 Miss Daniella changed the subject at seeing my discomfort and she gave me a tour of the rest of the Citadel. She took me to the side room... the room stretched far away. The room was huge, it was just so big. I would've been ready to pass out if I ran from one end to the other! I thought the room was big enough to have an indoor archery range! There was a pot at the end that I would've wagered coin that I would be able to hit it, but thought agianst it since we were in such a holy place... being the Toranite's headquarters and everything.
 
 Miss Daniella lead us on to couple of tombs with big bright blue beams coming from the cieling. She asked if I remember the story about Toran's first paladin, I asked if it was Naverre and she just nodded torwards the tomb to the far left and say that it was where he rested. I read the tomb and... forgot what it said. I'll have to get permission to go back in to copy it down.
 
 We left shortly afterwards and Miss Daniella and Miss Elly said we are now searching for Miss Anne... she picked the wrong time to disappear or anythign right now.
 
 *rubs his eyes and sighs, writing a quick apology to himself*
 
 My descriptions are not the best, I am worn out and weary.
 
 *Sighs once more trying t othink of anything more to just fill the last space at the bottom of the page*
 
 Miss Essa's party is coming up, I am getting worried and anxious that Rocky, Keppli and myself will not do to good of a job at entertaining. Hope those that come know that we just started practicing. I had someone make five to six balls made from an elastic material that would bounce if I dropped it. I have been working on my juggling on my free time from searching for clues on finding Q, now Miss Anne, and my collecting job. I once saw a man on the corner of a street in some city I was in when I was younger, he had the ame type of balls and were throwing up in the air, often changing the patterns they were falling in. there were sevral I liked and remember. One, my favorite one where it took five balls to do correctly, and he would just continually bounce them off the ground in a cascading fashion. I'm not sure what I'll do, just a quick series of tricks. For my finish, I have been working on one where it takes eleven balls and it only lasts for few seconds at most. I'm not sure how high the cieling is but I'm hoping it is high enough or I'll have to have some really quick hands. I'm looking forward to it but yet still dreading at the same time.
 
 All I have to write about at the moment.
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*written in the woods somewhere*
 
 Alot has happened. Three more paladins have been found. Miss Anne is still missing. Miss Daniella was mad at me.
 
 I am just quickly going to describe what we did.
 
 We have check Arindor's once but we couldn't get pas that door. Lance sent out notices, asking for help. Alot of people arrived. those that came was Lance, Miss Daniella, Miss Ell, Miss Ayana, Marec, Miss Amanda, Caerwyn, Miss Valmara, Beli, Verideth, Miss Sun, Miss Mirren, Meryth, Angel, Ben, Sion, and I'm sure more, but there were so many that came, I may have forgotten someone. Anyway, we went down, prepared, fought the umber hulks... almost dieing in the easiest areas, we were so disordered... Miss Ell almost left and everyone was getting irritated. I may have showed how irritable I was, I usually try to hide my frustration but I was getting anxious, nervous, worried, excited... I just couldn't hide my emotions.
 
 We made it several levels below, constantly bombarded with skeletons huge purple worms and vampires. Sion, Miss Daniella and Tristan were ones to fall before we went down the stairs to the last room that we made it to. Miss Daniella rushed to attack Miss Sharyn (or the vampire woman) and she died trying to kill her... Miss Sharyn dissapeared right when she looked like she was done. I was furious and Tristan ran after her, which in turn killed him and that made Miss Ayana mad. We had to literally drag her back from following Miss Sharyn and getting herself killed. Miss Daniella was raised and Tristan was lost to the will of the bindstones. He was caught at the last moment by a bindstone because I saw him earlier today.
 
 We rested and went down the stairs and killed some of the skeletons, no problem. We saw Miss Sharyn up on a raised platform and we rushed her. This man, hooded and dressed in a black robed knocked me out and that is all I remember... I found myself back at Hempstead's Bindstone.
 
 *sighs, trying to slow down writing and make it more detailed*
 
 This is after all this in Arindor's... I was heading down into the goblin caves next to Hlint, because I wanted greenstone to make healing essences. I was clearing the area on top of the hill when Sion showed up. I was afriad miss Daniella would walk up at the wrong time. She does have a knack for doing that. Anyway, I offered to Sion that he could come down and help me. He gladly accepted and we got the greenstone, while in the process, almost killing ourselves.
 
 We were at the campfire and we slept. Miss Daniella and Tristan were there too, resting since they are in thier fragil form of dieing... she didn't seem to recognise Sion. It seemed safe enough so he stayed and she slept. She awoke, same as normal and the nrecognised Sion. She asked him to remove his hood and I said that he was "Nios".. or his name backwards since Miss Ayana said he needed his name to be different so we could adress him. Sion then sayed that he had enough of the chasing and the running, he basicly just gave himself away then. Balazar, Mando, Meryth and Rasa were there as well and chased after him. I just sort of watched, not making a move to catch him. I don't want to turn someone in that is a friend, I don't completely believe he attacked three people.
 
 He ran into the goblin caves and Miss Daniella turned to me quickly, obviously angered. She asked why I didn't tell her and why I lied to her and why I couldn't trust her enough to believe that he attacked three people. It's not that I don't trust her, it's that I was not there and couldn't see what he actually did. I like Miss Daniella to much to anger her... it stung beyond belief. I couldn't stand her getting onto me for lieing and why I couldn't tell her the truth and why I'm standing up for a dark elf. My eyes were burning and I didn't want anyone to see that I was about to cry because someone was getting onto me. I pulled my hood up, not kowing if they saw that the tears were leaking or not, I tried to keep my face dry so it is not noticed. She said something that I cannot remember and called me "sir"... She never calls me sir, it hurt, it was as if she was saying that I wasn't as close to her that we were before. That I wasn't considered a friend. He came running out and they caught him up the road. They talked and argued. It was somethign about Sion doing osmething and that I was saying it was not true. I supported Sion by saying that he didn't do it, I know he didn't do it. But they didn't say anythingto me and I asked if they didn't believe me enough to take my word. Miss Daniella said she doesn't know if she can anymore... I thought I was loosing her! I didn't know if she'd ever want to see me agian or talk to me or anything. At this point, I didn't know why I was sticking up for Sion. He was wrecking my life, and the friends I had gained. But he does deserve a proper trial and I do think he is still innocent but I don't think I should say anything like that in case I loose anymore trust. Miss Daniella left saying that I should convince Sion to turn himself in. I did that, he said he didn't want to turn himself in with Miss Daniella or Balazar or any other Toranite, and I told him to wait at the temple. I told Miss Daniella earlier today and she said he was to turnhimself in to the Roferien temple not the Toran temple... I tried and I made another mistake. I have yet to send Sion a bird.
 
 I made Miss Daniella a pie as an apology and she accepted it. I didn't know if she was forgiven and she asked why I lied, I said it slipepd my mind. She asked did it ever occur to me to tell her that I have been talking to Sion. I said it did, knowing that she caught me. It was another lie and it felt aweful. Then everyone started to show up. There is no privacy it seems. Elgon showed, Snagnor showed and so did someone with a red sword... I told her I can't talk about this with everyone around and she said she wasn't mad at me anymore. The relief just crashed down onto me, it felt great. The last she said was not to lie to her, and that it hurt her. I don't think I will be lieing to her anytime soon except to keep her from walking to her doom.
 
 I hope to not anger Miss Daniella agian. This is all I have to write.
 
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*sits in the middle of the cotton field by Hempstead for no reason but quiet*
 
 Miss Essa's Masquerade Ball was fun and had a good time. Before that night, I talked to Aeronn about how to bow and how to ask a woman to dance. I soaked it all up but still was tounge tied when asking Keppli to dance. Maybe it was because I fell on her when Elgon picked me up when he was in elemental form or maybe her large emerald eyes? I'm not a poet but they are pretty eyes, commented by her green leathers. I asked her to dance and we did a little, it was awkward really, we both didn't know how to dance. Everyone else was dancing to the various tunes of Miss Sun, Rocky, Snagnor and another halfling that played a heck of a violin. I took Aeronn's advice and watches the movements of other dancers and I did pick it up quick. I didn't step on her toes once I am proud to say! But she did end up tripping over my foot, I guess that was my fault, hope I didn't embarress her too much. Overall, I think she danced better than I did.
 
 I asked Miss Daniella to dance, she did look dashing as a princess. She didn't respond for a little while, hoping she wasn't ignoring me or didn't hear. Tristan leaned down and told me to compliment her, such as "May I have this dance with the most beautiful human woman?" It seemed to catch her attention even though she heard Tristan whispering. She warned me that she is no dancer and to watch my toes, I said it didn't matter. It didn't really, she doesn't weigh much more than me... maybe only a little. She is twice as tall as me if not more. She said I was warned... when do I ever stop at warnings? We danced, not stepping on each other's toes, Ben yelled for her to not step on me... people really underestimate how much pain I can really take. She asked why I wasn't dancing with Keppli, I did want too but my little bit of courage was gone. She dragged me to her ( I didn't really need to be forced...) and turned to Keppli, who was standing beside us, listening to the music and asked if she wanted to cut in to take her place. I was thankful Miss Daniella helped, I did manage to dance with Keppli for a few moments more until Nemo dissapeared stylishly. It was black and it dissapeared. Rocky took that as a moment to introduce us to the crowd and to ready us to perform.
 
 He gave the introductions and we did our flips, jumps and cartwheels. Keppli did manage to fall couple times but she was tough and got back up to continue. I was waiting for the moment when I would do a flip and lands on my neck... it never came thankfully. We finished the first part and Rocky sung a song he made up. He joked about four different people: Keppli, Ben, Miss Essa and myself.
 
 I managed to remember what he said, it was so funny:
 
 Now Keppli, she's a halfling child, who likes a drink or two, so pass the ale and watch her drink if you can afford the true.
 
 And Tod's a fashion cautious guy (I don't really think I'm -that- cautious. I just want to be presentable.) who rarely ever dies, 'cos he's got suits of black and blue, equipped with swords and pies!
 
 Ben Poetr's a cheeky chap, who runs 'round cafting stuff, but watch out in the crafting hall, 'cos he crafts in the buff!
 
 (Miss) Hedessa's a fiesty ones, priestess and healer too. I once asked her for sounds advice, she said moo, moo, moo, moo! (I don't really understand the moo, moo, moo, moo, thing)
 
 It was a funny song, something Rocky would diffently come up with. My time was up to juggle and I think I did quite well. I didn't drop an apple until I threw up twelve apples and the scattered to land on my head!
 
 Rocky had to leave in a hurry and Keppli did too. I was hoping to catch another chance to dance with her for a couple more moments since we didn't finish one of the two we started before. She said she was tired and I simply gave her a hug and thanked her for coming. I went back to talk to Tristan and Miss Daniella... they left to go for a walk together and I was left in the huge room with Miss Essa and Sal, Miss Tegan, Miss Jaelle, Miss Sun, Lyle and his violen (he played really well too), Storold and a few others. They seemed occupied with thier dice so I thanked them for the time and the dance, I did have alot of fun.
 
 *draws a line to show a subject change*
 
 I talked to Miss Daniella and Aeronn earlier today. Miss Laura (the vampire who says she is good) wants to help us but she wants a file from the Citadel before she gives us any informations on Q's where abouts. Miss Laura, I saw the other day, but she looked very normal and didn't know she was dangerous, she sort of gotten me out of danger with Magus Del'mar.. she seemed pretty nice.
 
 I asked if there's another payment she'll take but she only wants the file. She left, not saying anything more. I asked miss Daniella wants in the file and she said it's a record of Miss Laura's past and her terror. I suggested we make a copy and give her the original but we keep the copy. Miss Daniella said it didn't work lie kthat and I asked what really happened to Miss Anne. She would tell me saying it would both cause harm to Miss Anne and myself. I'm really curious.
 
 That's all I have, it's getting dark, I'm really tired.
 

-Fellow

[Zoogmunch]

A short chap wearing purple under his cloak and hood is seen sneaking out of town for few days, carefully watching every corner to see if Ben Poetr is following.

he makes his way out towards the Ire mountains but falls asleep in the barn in Hemp Fields with nightmares of recriminations and possible death threats giving him a tortured rest!

Its tough being a bard!


the wherabouts of Howling Wolf is currently unknown........

[Lord Dark]

*the dates written in the corners of the pages are a month apart*
 
 I've been running around with Shadowmaster Black in the Rift... he agreed to teach me the shadows. I think he was sincere in helping me, it is hard to understand what he says sometimes, he speaks in riddles. He said that is the language of the shadows. We just roamed, he taught me how to concentrate on sneaking past and keeping focused. I still cannot truely cover myself, but I work on it daily.
 
 Before I left with Shadowmaster Black, I arrived in Dalanthar with Miss Alatriel, Aerimor, Miss Sun, Verideth, Miss Amanda, Aesthir, and Miss Ayana. They asked why I was here. I don't know, I think it was because the Rift is where the Deep meets the surface and shadows play with people here...
 
 We saw this man, dissapearing and reappearing, I could sort of tell he was one with the shadows. He said he missed it agian (there was a shadow that kept running past us and laughing) and said he wants it back. He said he'd let us help him if we were to answer his riddles. I was thinking that was just dandy, something I can't figure out is riddles! The first riddle was easy, Miss Sun answered it once and it was right. The second one was hard, but Miss Alatriel knew it the whole time:
 
 When you look in the dark, you're blind. When you look in the light you see. You look here to find what's already been seen...
 
 We all just sort of rattled off answers... mirrors, reflections, paintings, pictures, yourself, calenders... But Miss Alatriel sort of blurted out the answer, I guess from impatience or boredom.. I sort of understand since I wanted her to come and then we get here and there's nothing to do... But the answer was "looking deeper"... I don't know how that fits the riddle, makes no logical sense. *frowns, tapping his quill agianst the side of his head thinking* I asked in the morning if he would teach me. He said he would and I asked if he could show me how then and there. He dissapeared... stepping into the shadow with a slight shimmer, but the actual "stepping in" didn't make since to me. He showed me once more and suddenly seemed thoughtful. I asked if I should feel anything when I make the transcition and Miss Alatriel stated that it feel the water... He said if I spent a month with him and learned faster than Miss Alatriel ( I don't think I could, Miss Alatriel is pretty smart) then he would teach me. I left the group, waving bye to them, not wanting to leave really... but curiosity was the larger emotion. We roamed the Rift, him teaching and instructing. The month flew by quickly and he brought me back to Dalanther. I am now in Hlint, tired and weary, really wanting sleep and to see everyone. I think I have reached me goal.
 
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*Written while sitting in the back of Aerimor's and Alatriel's house, waiting the rain out to head back to town*
 
 Not much has taken place, still haven't found Q. There's not much for me to do now, seems like this is Toranite only business. They have rangers to track and scout and then wizards have spells that can work out simple locks and traps. Those are my area of expertise and everyone has it covered. I'm start to think that I could just... go out on my own. I could be more effeciant, knowing that my friends are safe somewhat, and only having to worry bout my hide and my task. Snagnor already said to search the area in the Ire Mountians that is inhabited by undead. I'm thinking of searching there and then maybe the Serpent Isles.
 
 I'm feeling self-pity at the moment, thinking I'm not useful, it's so easy to surrender to it.
 
 *groans and rubs his eyes with both hands, the gloomy weather getting to him*
 
 I did talk to Keppli earlier today, I told her about the wedding and gave her the pie and ale that Mrs. Tegan made. I still have yet to give Rocky his. Hope I see him soon, or there won't be any pie left! I showed her some pipeweed leaves that I pciked up on Dregar when out for blueberries. I knew what the plant was, it's Plains Exceptional. Famous among Halflings so of course, I knew what it was on sight. Keppli lent me her pipe and I put the plant in. She warned me to remember not to swallow... so when I pulled in a mouthful.. what do I do when I have something in my mouth? I swallow! So I swallowed all that smoke, and had a coughing fit. Tears were flowing from the pain and sting, it was so thick. The smoke finally came up in a huge grey cloud. She patted me on the back which did help a bit with getting the smoke to come back up. I don't see how she does it, she's got to have lungs of mithril to handle the smoke. After I calmed down a bit, and the tears weren't coming any longer, she explained to me that the reason she really does it reminds her of home... I understand how she sees that, maybe a grandfather smoking in front of a fire, or a father smoking while retelling their child a story. I just never really had any of that, but I can see a mental picture of how it reminds her. We talked about maybe chewing it instead, she just smiled and said that if I wanted her to really stop, she'd stop. I'm not going to say that I want her too. If she wants to, that's completely fine with me, I'm not sure why she would let me stop her from doing it. Plus, she's a halfling, we're tough! I said I'm an exception, I'm not so tough, can't spook a deer or anything! But that's Tod for you, they just gotta be happy with what they get, I'm not easy to change.
 
 She had to leave, as usual, to soon. I didn't even say that her armor's new look looks nice. Women get irritated when people don't notice when they get their hair changed or new clothes (from what I've heard in the past), but I'm one to notice little details. She went for more of a brown than a bright green, but kept a little bit on the sleeves and waist, still enough to compliment her eyes. She still wears her cloak with the wolf head that she stitched in a little while ago. I do agree it does look like Lythar. Her hood and cloak isn't pink.. or purple, like before. I'm thinking she doesn't like to be the target with the bright colors! *chuckles despite the rain, now pouring nonstop* If she was to lay in a pile of leaves, anyone could walk right past her, not knowing she was there until she giggled about them not noticing her. Maybe that's why rangers are called to do the scouting and tracking? They blend in so well? My black and blue helps with shadows in towns and cities, but in the woods, I sort of stick out in the light with being the little black spot on everyone's vision. I'm thinking about getting the dies to change, I tend to be in the forest more now than rural areas. I'll ask her or Caerwyn on how much and where I should put the colors.
 
 That's all I have.
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*His words are becoming easier to read and the words are spelt correctly as he progresses through his journal. He writes in Hempstead, thinking of the last few days, releasing most of his numerous thoughts onto parchment*
 
 Mister Plenarius told some of his stories at Blackford's Castle by the two waterfalls. Benches and tents were in place and the roar of the waterfall was a good touch. Many people came to listen, I went twice since he retold couple of his stories couple days after the first.
 
 The first day Plenarius told his stories, I went alone and sat in the back to listen. He told of Eon and his betrayal to Katia, of the fall of Blood and then the metallic dragons. He told them really well, I felt emersed into the stories themselves. I do not want to copy the stories here, because I'll leave things out and they won't be so good to read as from the one that told it. We had little intermissions in between the stories, the first was fireworks! I never saw fireworks because I miss Missus Jil's and Marcus' wedding so I saw fireworks for the first time. They were loud and bright, not really my favorite adjectives but I enjoyed it. Miss Alatriel and Aerimor showed up before the fireworks. Aerimor had left before they started, leading a little boy behind him on the way back. I thought Miss Alatrial had a miscarriage, but this boy is about ten and not elven. So he must not be hers geneticaly. His name was Zain and he's seems like a good boy. Plenarius told about eight dragons eggs weighing 1000 stones each, and Zain's eyes widen and asked if his dad, or Aerimor now, could carry that many. *chuckles* Aerimor said he could in bear form with no problem. It was funny and I enjoyed watching Zain in his ignorance (that's put nicely) about the Al'Noth and it's powers. Well... I probably don't have much more knowledge in it either so we have that in common. At the end, Miss Alatriel was going to take Zain home, I wanted to meet Zain and asked about why he's with her. We talked for a little, she said Zain and herself didn't want to relive the story over agian so soon. The little guy must have had a hard time. But I said I'll go around with him, get him a sling and break couple of windows and beat up some kobolds or giants that harass travelers. Miss Alatriel didn't seem too pleased with the idea of Zain or myself breaking windows... so I changed to not being around any buildings when we do... I'll try somewhat. *grins* If he breaks any... or I do, I'll leave more than enough coin in the window sill to repay the glass. Zain looked axcited but Miss Alatriel said they had to leave... I'm thinking Zain and I will get along together just fine!
 
 The second time, I remember that Plenarius was retelling the stories when I was in the crafting hall with Keppli. We were growing a bit bored, I made the belts for Missus Jaelle and Miss Sun, one was an exceptional , the patterns of the tiger's hide was very nice, they worked together to make excellent patterns. But after finishing the belt and wishing Keppli would put it on so I could see how it looks on her, I remembered that Plenarius was telling more stories and invited Keppli to come this time. We took a ship and ran to the falls, telling Keppli about the fireworks and stories. She never seen fireworks either so I'm glad I remembered to come. Sadly, Plenarius just finished with Eon's betrayal so Keppli missed the first story due to my forgetfullness. But he said fireworks were starting and I didn't feel as bad when Keppli's green eyes lit up with excitement. There was a small boom and the first firework was in the sky, making bright patterns and crackles. I believed I watched Keppli more than the fireworks themselves, out of the side of my eyes, watching her features flash with the sudden introductions of lights. Her already large innocent eyes were wide during the whole display, I could watch the fireworks in them. They reflected the lights quite well.
 
 After the lights were finished, we went back to sit down in the grass to listen. Plenarius told us a story, people sometimes leaving and more arriving. Rocky arrived later on in the middle of the second story, was good to see him too. He could use Plen's stories to add something to his own stories and songs, so this was good for him. Miss Daniella arrived later, wearing some new armor. I found out later that Tristan made it and said she looked better in it than he did... I was thinking he made the armor for that purpose... to get it to fit her just right.*grins as he writes* I think Tristan's going after her, but more subtle than Raz or anyone else. He is one of Toran, and puts Toran first before anything else, so I guess they would be find together. They would both know Toran comes first before each other and themselves... I'm not sure, everyone's getting together and leaving each other, it's confusing.
 
 But Tristan did show up, along with Verideth and some others. Plen finished up his stories and there was some after story socializing. Miss Daniella came to the other sides of the benches and sat beside the fire. I went to talk to her some and work my way up on what Rocky found in the Ire Mountians (will write about that later). Miss Daniella was in one of her thoughtful moments, not responding to anything and Keppli came down to sit by me. I grinned to her and looked back to Daniella. She said she foudn the pie before but left it so not to disturb evidence... I was shocked, I thought we were doing good by taking it and showing it to her but didn't know it was found before and that we just messed up a site that could help... Tehn Miss Daniella looked sad all of a sudden and said that people found the apple man dead.. shredded to pieces... so we really didn't find much evidence at all. I said that he couldn't be and she asked if I had heard. That set me off, I haven't heard anything at anytime, and I sort of.. yelled it at her... I immediatly felt bad with the look she had, it was of shock, I never yelled at her before. It felt wrong and I did it right in front of Rocky and Keppli... But Sion showed up and it was forgotten. He said that he didn't know Toranites would give up so quickly. I was not in the mood for his smart mouth, there were shadows playing everywhere around us, I could have easily dissapeared into one, feeling the "water", as Miss Alatriel put it, that you feel when you manipulate one, and have punched him square in the jaw. She didn't need this right when I yelled at her... but then she didn't need me fore starting anything. So I let Miss Daniella handle it and I stood by, listening. She said that there will be even more searches and that he won't need to be part of it and he could turn himself in. Keppli looked confused and asked why he should turn himself in. I whispered to her about the assault on Miss Daniella and Miss Anne, and the murder of the other dark elf while he was in the cell. I tried to put it nicely, knowing that Sion could possibly be partially innocent, my irritation torwards him gone. Keppli just looked at him with narrowed, suspicous eyes (ones that I hope she will never train onto me) and said she thought she could trust him. Miss Daniella then said that he could go turn himself in and being honorable, I wasn't listening much. Sion left and came back later asking if I knew anyone that would be buying aloe. I said that there's only one person I know that's buying and that I'm already gathering for him. Miss Daniella asked why he would need coin if he's going to be taken to a prison. He smarted off a little more and stomped off... his mouth isn't helping him much, but that's why I need to work with him and hopefully, he can straighten it out.
 
 Miss Daniella had to leave, I didn't say sorry for the yelling and I still feel bad.. Rocky had left as well and it was Keppli and myself. She said she had to leave and get some sleep, I felt that the time flew by and she had to leave again too soon. *frowns, tapping his quill against the books, leaving black dots as he thinks*
 
 Miss Jaelle *starts onto a whole new subject* was in the crafting hall in the gems crafting area while I was messing aorund with some gems. I found out that I can get alexandrite and sapphires by myself and decided to cut a few. She seemed really skilled in how she handled and polished the gems. She asked what I was cutting and I replied that I was just messing around with the gems, having a little fun. She explained to me some things about sapphires since they're so hard and have to be cut right. She said if they're too large, they'll look small and won't look right, and if they're too small, they'll look big but won't have the proper color. She said it's all about the light entering the sapphire. She showed me one of her rings that she had on one of her elegant fingers, it was a big sapphire sat in silver. I love how the blue interacts with the silver, I would say blue's my favorite (everyone should know with my blue coat I've had for months and then my black and blue armor and my blue and silver shortsword) ... green's coming up close, it's as if Keppli's eyes are imprinted in my mind. I close my eyes and I see hers, bright and green, full of life.
 
 But Miss Jaelle eased the sapphire out of the silver and showed me a view from the side, and I don't believe how many facets there was on such a tiny surface. I went back to try agian, and she didn't seem herself once more. She didn't seem herself at Plenarius' storytelling either. She asked if I had heard of the problems in Vhel, Hempstead and Leringard. I said I did and that I felt sorry for the poor souls... then Miss Jaelle said it was a "poor soul"... it's one girl... cut up in pieces and shipped to different ports to send a message. I felt horrible for the little girl, she turned out to be close to Miss Jaelle and it explained her sadness. Her name was Rhiannon and I'm determined to find the man, who she said she saw him snap a child's neck like a chicken (I'm sure it wouldn't take much more force to snap mine), and put a end to him. Miss Jaelle said to check Leringard and Hempstead... to be sublte and to lie if I'm figured out. I asked what to do if I found him and she said to reply back to her. She said to be careful, so I'm going to try since she's somewhat afraid of him too... this may be too much for me if it is a little for her but I'm determined.
 
 That's all I have, I'm really tired, my head seems a little bit more clean and ready to hold more thoughts and experiances. My hands are cramping up. I still have more to write about, but it will have to wait!
 
 
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*Sitting in the tree by the lake outside Fort Hempstead, munching on apples and drinking from one of his canteens*
 
 I haven't talked to much of anyone lately. I had a nice conversation with Miss Melissa. Miss Lavender was there earlier but left. Miss Melissa talked about having to speak to Miss Amanda about something and being interupted by someone she hasn't seen in a long time. I was naturally curious, so I asked her indirectly who it was. She said it was "Tobias" who acts as if he's dangerous but she doesn't think he has it in heart to do anything serious. I don't think that as a weakness, I also do not have the heart to even act mean. She couldn't imagin me being mean either. She soon asked if she could ask me a personal question. I was thinking, "Oh boy..." I was worried she would ask a really personal question. I said she could and thta I didn't have much to hide... I really do I guess. She asked if it was hard being short. *leans back agianst the tree trunk, laughing* I was happy that's all she asked. She asked if it was hard to do anything besides reaching up onto counters. That's not really a personal question since I've accepted that I'm short, and people are fine with it. I don't think I would be Tod if I wasn't short.
 
 I said that it is sometimes with people thinking they can take advantage of you but they don't think about hidden blades or myself hiding in their shadow, fading away right in front of their eyes. Another thing I mentioned was people thinking that I'm "cute" rather than handsome. She said that's a good thing... I guess it is but it's sometimes hard to have any woman look at me seriously... it probably doesn't matter since I'd run away? I don't know, I guess cute isn't bad. She said the handsome and cute sometimes come in a package, and when it does that, then it's a good thing. When will I get that package?
 
 I had to leave for a moment, and came back to Miss Lavender talking to Miss Melissa agian. Miss Lavender had a club out with big spikes and I asked why she used it. She said she uses it because she likes to break things... does she really like to crush skulls with it? But it turns out she prefers to use the mace on skeletons instead of stabbing... it makes a bunch of sense. Miss Melissa said she prefers to miss them all together. She said she didn't have anything that would work agianst skeletons and Miss Lavender said why not a stick? She replied that sticks are heavy or something that that sparked something in Miss Lavender to mess around with her about her not being able to carry much. I asked if Miss Melissa had bags, she replied that she did but full of clothes. Well, I couldn't use a stick much either. Miss Lavender pulled out this nice walking stick and told me to stand up. She handed it to me to try out and I looekd up to her, making she wasn't looking and I whacked her leg as hard as I could. I mean, it was a good whack, but it just glanced off her armor. She pulled it away from me and bopped me right on the head. It stung a little of course, didn't hurt too bad. I said that I wasn't that hardheaded and she told me to stop whining... I wasn't whining! I rubbed my head, hoping that rubbing it hard would stop the sting. Then Miss Lavender started on Miss Melissa about her clothes and then starts getting sarcastic about not stubbing her toe when Miss Melissa went to leave... I don't know why Miss Lavender was being like this, it wasn't like her really.
 
 *rereads back on his writing and sighs as he barely catches any of the conversation but continues anyway*
 
 I then talked to Miss Lavender about wearing dresses or even pants to show her hips somewhat and just a silk tunic... is that modest enough? I mean, you can't hide youself behind armor and not give a chance for guys to look at you when you're behind a mask. But she said she didn't need my help. Which is fine, I just wanted to be nice and give her some clothes, maybe get her to take her mask off. She took the outer shell of the mask off (yes she had shells of the mask in case one fell off?). She lead me back farther away from the pond and told me why I couldn't walk like everyone else. I told her that I'm just used to walking like that when I don't want someone to follow me and it's a habit. She just rolled her eyes and looked down on me. She sighed and took her armor off to reveal her regular clothes and begins to undo her mask even more. It came off completely it was hard to believe she'd hide her pretty eyes behind goggles. I don't know, I just have something for pretty eyes? *shrugs without thinking about it* But she had bright purple eyes... not like Keppli's but pretty anyway. She asked if I knew who she was and I said I didn't. Was she Miss Lavender like she said she was? She just rolled her eyes once more, and she said she was Tyra, Tyra Dragonheart, daughter of Shiff Dragonheart. I was surprised, really surprised! I knew he had kids but not any as old as Miss Tyra. We just talked brielfy about how Missus Valmara was faring and I asked her if Shiff told her about him and I would try to crush each other's head in a handshake. She has a strong grip, *flexes his hand* like Shiff's. I told her he'd let me try once more and I squeezed as hard as I could. I guess it's not hard enough.. she barely did anything more than a slight frown. She said she had to go and I was told not to tell anyone... so I won't. But she should try a dress on once or twice, she may look really nice.
 
 That's all I have, sadly it doesn't have much detail. I'm glad only I can see my journal.
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*He sits in front of a fire, twisting a red rose in between his fingers. He face is set with a frown, his eyes dead black without their usual shine. He looks to the fire several times, the raging conflict taking place in his mind on whether or not to toss the rose into the fire, slowly retreating back into the dark corners of his conciousness as he thinks. He begins to write slowly, taking care not to dig too deeply with the point.*
 
 I went into the Great Rift for diamonds. I thought they'd make a good gift to a couple people I know. Maybe one for Keppli and an uncut one for Rocky so it could be his goal to work harder so he could finally be able to cut it? I was thinking about her throughout the trip, being less careful, mining in clumps of darkelves. They never saw me.
 
 I found one area, close to the water. It look intimidating, but my greed then, was somewhat unmatched to anything I have felt in a long time. I swam, it was a long swim and I came out just at the right time when the black specks in my eyes were covering the majority of my vision. I sat there, breathing deeply, suddenly aware of the darkness that surrounded me. I realized that is why people compare my eyes to the Deep, it was pitch black in there. Shivers ran up my spine, my senses stretched out, trying to find any source of noise of nearby creatures or beings. I look back at the water, my boots giving off a soft glow. There was no way back through the water, I was stuck in this bewildering darkness. I went on forward at a pianstakingly slow pace. I never thought myself clausterophobic, but the black and silence were crushing me. Knowing thousand and thousands of pounds was over my head unnerved me.
 
 There was rock scraping on rock around the next corner that I didn't know was there. It was hard to distinguish and new corners or turns in the passage, everywhere sort of looked the same. I slipped aorund the corner and something hit my shoulder but it was unaware that I was there. My eyes were adjusted to the dark a little, and I could barely makeout a figure that was darker than the walls. I thought it Aerimor but these weren't like him. I heard more scraping and the area around me was alive with gargoyles. I slanked along the wall, almost not breathing to keep my noise low. I came upon a gate, it was trapped and locked. The trapped was set to the side and the lock picked silently. Inside held another things of unmined diamonds. They glittered, thoughts suddenly back to Keppli. I sat there, the whole area a shadow, there was an unearthly glow somewhere that created them, and I was finally able to be in peace. But me chipping pushes my arms out into some of the light, and a gargoyle caught a glimpse of me. Knowing I was there, he brought one of his massive claws over the whoel area above the deposit. He clipped my shoulder, laying it open and I was to my own devices. Out of no where, giant giants appeared, trying to smash me under thier massive feet. My only hope was to go deeper, praying to whoever that would listen, to put something near me to make their mines deviate from me. My prayer was unanswered but their short attention spans slowed them in their tracks and they wandered off.
 
 I came upon a bridge, its cobblestones raised in place. The area was swarming, literaly swarming with dark elves. I snuck past, taking extra care not to put a signle one of my tiny toes onto an irregular stone. My thief senses were in overdrive, I didn't see a nearby elf wander almost to directly where I was. It shoved me, still not knowing what was there and I had to either step blindly or to be seen.... I stepped on the only raised cobblestone and I felt my body freeze in its movement and everything was darker than before. I felt two forces fighting over the control of my spirit. One was the Soul Mother who wanted me and then the force of the Bindstone, fighting to bring me back. I was over as soon as it started and the relief... if you can feel relief, was overpowering, I didn't feel a familiar tear of myself that I have felt before, and I found myself back in Dalanthar.
 
 *He sets the rose aside, giving it a hateful glare and he pulls out a diamond that was recently free from its rock prison. He wieghs it in his hands, admiring the blue and white light it gave off. He pockets it and picks up the flower once more, setting it on his crossed leg and begins to write once more*
 
 I managed to get three diamond minerals by myself. But I will not brag, that is not me, I took it by cowardly ways but for several people I admire and look up to. I sat in Hlint, gathering my thoughts and Sion walked past and sat beside me. He asked what was wrong, noticing me unusually quiet and still. I explained to him my adventure, trying not to layer it with smugness. We talked for a few hours, watching the people run past and retire into their houses. I said I was going to have to leave and get some sleep, I haven't sleep for the couple days in the darkness, afraid something would come by me and take me out without a fight. Sion dropped the grass weaving he was doing and handed me a red rose to give as an apology to Keppli. I never experianced jealousy so strong, so... I can't describe it.
 
 I never recognized my feelings for Keppli, I guess it was myself being afraid that they would not be returned. I've tried to be subtal, but now I realize that I'm not the only male on earth that would go after her as well. What if I'm running out of time and my lack knowledge of women is holding me back? Maybe I should be held back and meant to be single my during my life? Gods aren't so fake as I thought before. I favor many of the gods that rule Layonara, I favor some of this god and then some of these goddesses, I don't think I can truly be devoted to one god out of so many. But maybe Ilsare would help me, give me the courage to confess myself? Do I wait until I recognize a sign that she loves me back? But then agian, we may not be meant for each other but I'm not up to thinking about that, it hurts too much. If I can't pull myself together, then I can handle being just friends.
 
 *He scowls at the rose and tucks it away, planning to give her the rose anyway so not to loose the trust that Sion and Keppli give him*
 
 That's all I have, it's alot this time.
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*He sits in the corner of the Scamp's Mug, a big candle in the middle of the worn out table. The light illuminates the surface of the blank page which he plans to fill. He dips the quill and writes slowly, trying to make it look nice.*
 
 I finally saw the inside of the Leringard Arms Inn that is next to the Card Emporium. I never saw the door open or close and thought the building closed. But it turns out that Steel worked there.... or something that allows him to have a key. Several people came to listen to what Steel had to say about a job that he put out big posters about.
 
 He lead us to the dining room which held many tables. These weren't the normal run down tavern tables, they were covered in a light red to pink table cloth with little candles in the center on each one. Keppli looked into the flames several times as if searching for an answer, her eyes bright and seem to sparkle as the flame danced on its wick. I like it better when she's focused on an object, it allows me to observe her without her knowing. It's pathetic, I know, but that's... just how I am.
 
 She unfocused and looked away and up to Steel and his silver masked helm. I've never seen his face or the horns he's claimed he has, I'll have to ask him sooner or later... he doesn't seem to have it so I can accidently throw a rock to knock it off. I'm sure he'd have me by the ankles and dangle every stone that is hidden in my pockets since the first failed to work. *grins* But he got right to the subject of the meeting. It was about armies of dragons and men are storming Khul or something another and he wants to get answers about who's leading them or how to defeat them or... *he doesn't finish the sentence as he trails of in thought* But he says he wants to go into a dragon's lair in the Deep, not far from the emerald and mithril viens. That made my decision, I have never seen a dragon (drakes don't count) and I'm determined to see one. Keppli's coming along to see the dragon too, her excitement is another reason to go... someone's had to watch over her a least a little bit even though she's a big girl and handle herself. Gork and a red-headed dwarf (obviously one of Vorax with his red hair and beard braided with white lace...) seem to underestimate us. *shrugs as he writes* I'm used to it and fine, I sort of expected people to think of us only as dragon food on this adventure... but I'll make sure Keppli isn't eaten and I think she'll do the same for me. But we'll show them. *grins and chuckles, thinking how Keppli and himself could possibly come out alive* She keeps saying we'll do fine and Rocky is coming as well to record the trip, he'll keep us out of trouble... maybe!
 
 Steel said we may have to give the dragon gifts, I thought that if he already had everything, why would he accept anything else? But as I thought and figured, Gork had to suggested on offering the little ones, or refering to Keppli and me... I'm fine with that, not the being the gift, but on him underestimating us. As I wrote above, we'll be fine! Miss Tyra was there and didn't seem to think we could do well either... even though she's seen me fight a little, I'm sure the dragon would have a couple holes in his belly if he swallowed me whole! But I like Miss Tyra and won't hold her opinion agianst her, she's just really realistic. Of course I had to suggest offering a pie but no one seems to ever take that seriously. *shrugs* At least Keppli and me were on the same mind track, I'm sure a dragon wouldn't mind sharing a massive pie with a couple Halflings. But everyone that I know may be coming is Miss Alatriel, Keppli, Rocky, Chakar maybe Gork and Grohin (the Vorax dwarf), Abiorn, and Wren... Maybe Missus Elly since I told her about it too.
 
 All I have to write about right now.
 
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*He wakes up from a nightmare, shredding the bedsheet to ribbons with the dagger in hand. He looks down at it and throws it at the wall as if the handle was scalding his palm. He looks to the bedside table that the inn had and pulled the journal to write in, hoping that releasing the memories onto paper would help relieve dreams.*
 
 I see it... I see the bleach white skull, it's blazing red eyes laughing. I still hear it's ghostly whispers:
 
 Kill the leader here... let them take the gems and let them suffer...
 
 *He shudders and jerks his head around, looking around the room. He steels himself and looks underneath the bed, hoping the poor attempt at humor with himself would help.*
 
 We went to search for the portal that Storold said was in Krandor. We went past the door that I have never been past. We cleared a room of skeletons and nothing was found. There was a trap that kept us from examining a little area of wall behind it. It wasn't a problem, cut few wires here, set a rock on a little latch from it triggering the string that lead up the wall to drop something down on us, and we could walk past safely. There was a fire opal, it's shine and it's fine quality tempting me, but nothing that I need to worry about. Missus Gala examined it saying it's trapped magically and Miss Ell said there was a pattern etched into it that warded the area from creatures of the abyss... We left, hoping that none of us would try to scratch it out. We came upon a room, a red glow over the floor and a red... cage like thing was in the back. Glittering fire opals were scattered around the perimeter, beckoning me forward. I got too close and was... overcomed with blackness, a skull, white with the black pits that was inhabited by crimson eyes, appeared and laughed. He whispered, urging me to kill our leader. I am so glad, so happy, so relieved that I didn't know who our leader was... was it Miss Amanda or Storold? That confusion kept me from attacking. The power and anger, surging through me and threatening to make me insane, prodded me to snuff out their souls, to make sure that even the Soul Mother couldn't snatch them away to put them back through the cycle.
 
 *He gazes at what he wrote, remembering the anger and power surge and shudders once more. He wipes his dampening eyes, frustrated with himself about why he could not remember everything that took place.*
 
 Miss Sala came near, I guess worried, she is a motherly kind. I was confused and the hatred of her was so great. She came near... and all I can remember is her lieing on the ground, and a massive urge to laugh was unbearable. I felt something from behind and I managed to get away and I struck out blindly and made contact with Missus Gala and she fell to the ground as well.
 
 All I remember now was me feeling normal but with Aerimor in his drake form, duking it all out on my face and any place he could reach. I could not sneak away to safety, the shadows' welcoming embrace could not hide me away from Aerimor's dragon sight. We were obviously in a hurry to leave and several were helping Miss Sala and Missus Gala, indicating that they were hurt and wounded and I was the cause of that. We made it topside with little distractions and I was overcomed with grief. Missus Gala comforted me even though I did not deserve it. I said I was sorry to both of them and they said I was forgivened, but that doesn't satisfy my need for repentance of some kind. I don't think I can do a whole lot, but I was controlled agianst my will... is that an excuse? Am I making something out of nothing like the way they make it sound? What if Keppli was one who tried to stop me...?
 
 *he finishes his entry with few more rhetorical questions to himself*
 
 It's all I can handle to write.
 

-Fellow

 
 *He closes the book and sets it aside. He lays awake, asking himself several questions until he falls into a shallow slumber*

[Lord Dark]

*He's light in spirits and his mood enjoyable. He opens his journal to write as he sips at a beaker of diluted ale.*
 
 I met up with Missus Gala and Keppli today near the Angel's Guild Hall... She wasn't mad at me for striking at her in Krandor and it was great to see Keppli agian. She asked if I wanted to come to Hempstead's square to figure out what to do and I followed. I'm up for adventuring and getting into a little bit of trouble, it's been a while since I've had a really good trip. So it was Missus Gala, Keppli and myself talking and everyone dissapeared... of course it was Rocky playing a trick on us. We talked and chatted, Keppli was watching the ioun stone that was still flying around me. Missus Gala noticed and said I have a way of catching Keppli's attention and winked to me... Maybe that's a good thing? I like having her attention without me having to show off... It's really hard for me not to, I want her to know that I'm there, yet I don't want to be like all those other men who's egos are huge... mine is a little, but they know I'm joking most of the time. I want to be subtle and bold, but those aren't my qualities really... I tend forget the stone is there so I held out my hand and letting it smack into my palm.
 
 Miss Alatriel showed up beside me. It was good to see her since I rarely see her or Aerimor now. I hope Zain is doing good, I still need to get a sling or bow for him. I don't know if it's me or what, but the light around her seems to dim slightly as if shadows are still clinging to her. She carries an air of mystery with her and her wry sense of humor adds too it even more. I doubt I'm like that yet.
 
 We were discussing where to go and Missus Gala smiled to someone sitting a way off on a bench. She waved her over and it was a rather pleasant looking lady. She had on light purple blouse with a really low neck line... and pants and heels that reach up to my shins! Miss Gala asked her name, which was Miss Bree, and began to introduce us. She introduced me as "handsome" before stating my name... am I getting that package yet? *chuckles about the package* Someone said something, I wasn't really paying attention and Miss Alatriel... oooh, I'm goin to have to get her one day. She said something about me running away from women, I shot her my most dangerous glare I could (it's not that threatening...) and pulled a hand across my neck to signal her to stop. She just winked and smiled. Miss Bree put her hands onto her knees (to show herself even more or what, but it made it hard to breath) and she smiled and asked "What's your name, cutie?"... Yeah, I couldn't help but stutter, I couldn't get all the air I needed! I said my name even though Missus Gala just introduced me. Miss Alatriel then had to pipe up about how talented I am at kissing and she knows from experiance... *stops writing and runs his hands over his face, trying to hide the redness.* "Oh, but he is cute" Miss Bree said agian making me turn about as red as I could go... I would have sworn I was going to pass out with how much blood was going to my head, I was growing really, really dizzy. She just stood there with her hands on her knees still looking at me. Keppli and Rocky both tried to step in and help. I was still blushing and looked away, it took all I could to not dissapear in Miss Alatriel's shadow. Miss Bree then straightened and turn to Keppli and said she was cute too... she is but I'll probably never tell her that... and asked Keppli's name. Missus Gala grinned and said Miss Bree was diffenently a Xeenite. Keppli turned red and said her name and then we changed subjects. I was sort of dissapointed, I do like the attention she was giving me, it's just that I can't handle it. Miss Tyra came up behind us and heard us talking about Haven. Of course that'd catch her attention. She said she'll come and Miss Bree departed saying she has to catch up with a couple of her friends... to do what?
 
 We arrived in Haven that night all of us exhausted. We slept and went in to get the commander's head and everything was going really well. Missus Gala had a knack for dazing the gnolls with her spells. In one room, there were more than the usually scouting groups and they swarmed us. Missus Gala couldn't call down her hammers fast enough and Keppli was beat to death. I yelled at Miss Tyra to shut up because she was rambling on about us not staying behind her and her shield. I pushed the gnolls off Keppli and was going to check on her but Miss Tyra scooped her up and took her into the other room. I followed closely behind, trying to catch of Keppli's body but she wouldn't stop until we were in a safe place to let Missus Gala go all the way out to sleep so she can gather the energy and to pray on raising Keppli. I sat beside her body, hoping she would suddenly jump up to suprise us or just to show some sort of life in her. I sat there, studying her face, she looked really peaceful and it took what I had not to stroke her cheek or to push her hair out of her closed eyes. I checked her pulse, hoping for even the slightest jump to show signal of her heart beating. It wasn't and I felt horrible when I remembered why I didn't notice her getting hurt. Miss Tyra moved her body behind the little space between rocks and I checked her pulse once more, even more hopeful than the last time... I didn't feel a thing and I exhaled without realizing I was holding my breath. Miss Alatriel whispered a suggestion from a near by shadow to just kiss her and maybe that'll bring her back. Of course I turned red once more, if I knew that if one would help her, then yeah, I would diffenently give her one, but I can't when she's like that. She couldn't tell me "no" or even slap me... so I didn't kiss her. Missus Gala came back down and raised Keppli, I gave her a quick hug, hoping to not to upset her or make her unconfortable. I would've given her a kiss but I don't want her hand leaving an imprint on my face so soon after her resurrection... The rest of the trip was uneventful beside Miss Tyra's knitpicking with Missus Gala and Miss Alatriel over battle tactics and that was it.
 
 That's all I can write about right now.
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*Tod sits at the top of the waterfall, watching the kids play down by the tents. He pulls his journal and begins to write, his quill's feather swaying side to side quickly. He writes in big letters at first and then returns to his normal style.*
 
 
 
 
 
 

WE FOUND HIM!

 
 
 Q has been found! We (Miss Daniella, Lance, Keppli, Rocky, Miss Tyra, Miss Sun, Verideth, Aerimor, Sion, Lexor, I think her name was Angela and another Dark Elf that was around Miss Angela the whole time was there.) all searched the other day, up by where the pie was found. The grate lead to a black maze and in the back was a door. I was lost when out scouting and I guess the group didn't want to wait and they went on down. I was stuck up in the maze, vampires at every turn and the never ending tunnels that sprawled before, behind and beside me. I finally found my way back to the door and the group was already down. They held a wounded man, it was hard to determine who he was, his face seemed permantly etched with pain. The man was Quantum... he was tortured the whole time while we searched. We left with Lexor carrying Q over his shoulder. Q never responded to anything we said, he always had that blank gaze.
 
 We arrived back in Wayfare and Lance confronted Sion about him turning himself in. Lexor talked to both of them and I squeezed in between Lexor and Lance to stand in front of Sion... I think that was a bad decision on my part, Miss Daniella left, looking stressfull. I hope I wasn't one who made her leave, she worries me with everything she takes up at once. I should have defended Sion in a more... subtle way instead of standing in between them like that as if they were about to attack him. It's just hard to see a friend being taken in. I've tried to visit him but my visits have been fruitless. I think now I'm only hurting the trust of those I love and care for when trying to visit him when he's detained like that. I talked to Lance after taking Q back to Toran's temple in Fort Llast, I asked him to tell Miss Daniella I said "Hi" and Q that too when he snaps back into the proper mindset. I don't think I help Miss Daniella when I try to defend those that are... probably guilty. I should let them take care of their business, I'm not a Toranite and I don't think I would make a good one. I won't get in their way again like that, even when my mind is screaming at me to, I will stay to the side and let them do what they're trained to do.
 
 It's rumored that Quantum has lost his mind and lost his rank of Shining Hand. He's lost almost everything he's worked for when he was just trying to defend Keppli and me and I feel guilty about this too. I should have stayed to help Q instead of running back to the temple, then I could have followed and stabbed those vampires with a stake, keeping them in their blasted coffins! I should have shredded them apart and burned the pieces! I just want them gone... I'm am glad Q is back, I sort of do think that Toran was watching over him from somewhere... a little bit at least, I don't think anyone could survive being tortured like that.
 
 That's all I have to write.
 
 

-Fellow

[Lord Dark]

*Tod sits in the tree outside the crude fence that warns new adventurers not to enter the kobold's camps. His journal is in his lap with his pen in hand, tapping his bottom lip with the top and his legs swinging on one side of the branch, thinking of what to write.*
 
 Aerimor and Miss Alatriel had to leave to do a long trip errand and Verideth and Miss Sun wasn't home either. They asked me to take care of Zain for a day or two and to keep him and myself (they took extra care to make sure they told me too) to stay out of trouble. How much trouble could a thirteen- fourteen year old boy and a Halfling man that is about twenty-five and with the same maturity level get into? Actually, Zain is quite mature, he didn't talk much at first, but he loosened up a little bit when I took a couple pies out. He liked the cherry one a lot more than the blueberry... Aerimor has a bad influence on the boy about pie flavors! No biggy though, all pie is excellent.
 
 Zain sat in one of their big chairs most of the first day, not saying much. It wasn't like when I had to scavenge for a heel of bread that would be my supper for the night. But then again... being a werewolf wasn't easy either. I guess that's something we have in common, we both has rough childhoods. I didn't want to let him sit there all the next day. I sort of raided Verideth's stock of roasts and bread... I'll replace it! We only ate two loaves of bread and roughly two roasts... the boy is a bottomless pit! He eats almost as much as me! It was sort of weird... not weird but interesting to see him tear into pieces of meat the way he did... is it werewolf instinct to finish up his food before something else comes and takes it away or that I didn't give him his supper soon enough? Either way, he finished a good ten or twenty minutes before me!
 
 The rest of the night was quiet, he read a lot and I dozed on. Zain must've slipped off while I was in one of my slumbers in one of their cushioned chairs... it's hard to see over the arms of one with how low I sink down and Zain did not make a single floorboard creak. I jerked awake and climb up to stand on the arm of the chair to look around. Everything was the way it was when I feel asleep, just the chair where Zain sat was empty. I slipped through the shadows that the fire and chairs made and went upstairs. I poked my head into each room, making sure not to linger so not to invade anyone's personal space and I finally found the boy's room... the house is pretty big but not too big. The door opened silently and the think column of candlelight lit up Zain's face. People say you look years younger while asleep... I don't think Zain could look any younger. His features are well defined and I think he's going to be really muscular... He's going to have every woman in a mile radius coming to just get a glimpse of him. I backed out, planning on what to do tomorrow.
 
 *He sets his pen down to rub his eyes, giving off a loud sigh. He picks it back up and continues to write*
 
 Zain was already up, fixing breakfast when I finally woke. He moves quickly but he is really quiet. I don't even think my hearing could pick him even if he was stomping around in metal boots. He fixed me a plate and we ate silently... almost, except with me rambling on. I asked him what he wanted to do and what he normally did... he just shrugged. I asked him if he's any good with a bow and his eyes lit up. We went out side and he showed me his bow. It was rather nice, what else would he have? Aerimor and Miss Alatriel are bloody rich! I'm surprised his doesn't have a catapult and a castle with a mote and alligators swimming through it all. I offered 50 coins if he could hit a apple right off my head. He frowned but accepted and I was sort of worried then. I've never had a little boy shoot an arrow straight at my head before! But he seemed well trained, I guess from having Elves as parents. His movement was fluid like and I never felt the apple move on my head. I closed my eyes after he already shot but I didn't know that at the time. I told him to shoot and he laughed and told me he already did. I lifted the apple off my head and looked at it. It had a very nice hole through it with little slits from where the fletching sliced through. I couldn't let him do that without giving me a shot! I handed him the same apple and told him to put it on his head with the hole pointed towards me. I stepped back and brought my own bow out. He looked extremely nervous but kept his cool. I pulled the fletchings to my cheek and made sure I aimed right. I let the string go and the arrow whizzed right through the hole that he already made. He grinned, whether from being impressed or relieved, I don't know. He looked at it and my fletchings were exactly opposite of where his where, making cross hairs. He seemed to be enjoying himself so I gave him the coins anyway for not killing me.
 
 He asked if we could go up to Leringard near the oak trees. I was confused but agreed to take him. I was sure that Miss Alatriel and Aerimor wouldn't be too upset if he came home a day late. We took a ship and left the city. He likes it much more out in the woods, he doesn't seem so tense. We passed several tufts of comfrey and and we just roamed. Zain lead me to a small cliff that revealed a little clearing. He crouched low, almost professionally and peaked out, looking for something. I heard a gentle yelp and looked over the edge too and there was a little pack of wolves and a few puff balls that could be the pups. The boy just watch with a slight smile on his face. It sort of makes sense for him to come and watch wolves... I didn't mind it at all, I enjoyed it thoroughly... wolves would have to be my favorite animal. I wished that I could walk up to an animal and become friends like Keppli does... that's almost what Zain did. It took a little longer but I guess that's because the parents were protective of their litter. He finally motioned me over and I took care not to shadow myself so that the wolves would know I was there from the beginning. I crouched next to Zain who was sitting cross- legged by the wrestling balls of fur. The parents were proud of their family and gave me a warning growl but let me sit close by... I'd be protective too if I ever had a child. The boy scratched the pups behind their ears and sort of yelped along with them. They peered up to him with their vibrant puppy eyes and they all tackled him. He nodded towards me and they ran up to me and begins to lick my fingers and tug on my boot laces. It was a lot of fun playing with wolves... they would have attacked me on site if it wasn't for Zain... it must be the old werewolf thing in him... or that Aerimor's been teaching him how certain animals act... or that's just him. By then, it was dusk and the parents picked up a pup each by the scruff of their neck and the others pounced through the tall blades of grass in the back, trying to keep up with their guardian's long strides. I recommended that we start heading back or else Aerimor would give me a long speech with his big words and Miss Alatriel wouldn't let me visit anymore. He nodded, seeming more comfortable with being around me.
 
 We made it home about a hour before Miss Alatriel and Aerimor came home. I said we had a good time and offered that if they needed me to keep an eye on Zain again, that I'd make time. I grinned to them and winked to Zain and left to go my own way... or.. well, right in this tree where I'm writing this now.
 
 I like Zain, he's a interesting boy and wouldn't mind taking him on a trip for sapphires or topaz or something. That's all I have to write about right now.
 

-Fellow